January 2012

There is a lot of chocolate out there masquerading as “dark”. If I see a chocolate labeled as “dark”, all it means to me is that I have to check the cacao percentage. If it doesn’t list it, I don’t buy it. Why? Because “dark” doesn’t really mean anything. There is no regulation in North America as to what constitutes “dark” chocolate. Consumers seek out dark chocolate because it’s healthier, and makes for a more guilt-free treat. And so companies label their chocolates as dark, wanting to sell more. Of course, since dark chocolate is higher quality (more cocoa liquor and butter and less sugar), it costs more. But if companies can label their regular chocolates as dark, and still charge more – Ka-Ching! What a great business plan. Win-win for the company, lose-lose for the consumer.

Do you ever peek into other people’s shopping carts, or gawk at their purchases at the check-out? Do you then try to figure out what kind of diet, if any, they’re on? Followed perhaps by a quick glance at the shopper to evaluate the success of that diet?

Somehow I doubt I’m the only one ;) In which case, you might find my weekly shopping loot interesting.

*These groceries are for 1 week, 2 people, and exclude previously purchased meat that may be used from the freezer.

I have a confession. Although I’ve had the signature lamb popsicles a few times at Vij’s, amazingly enough I actually love the home-cooked cookbook version even more! It ends up turning out more sweet (in a good way) than spicy, and also creamier for whatever reason. It’s the special occasion go-to dish that always gets rave reviews. People who don’t like lamb or Indian food have professed their love for this dish. Keep reading…